Hello, I'm Lily. I like experiencing new places and trying new things. I don’t usually overthink much. If there is an opportunity and it feels worth it, I am open to trying. Because of this, it has led me to join many camps and programs, often without my parents, in different places. Through these experiences, I have become somewhat comfortable handling myself in different situations and adjusting as things go on. I have participated in a variety of programs over the past years. I joined a learning and competition camp in China with friends and teachers that lasted more than two weeks, which was one of my most precious experiences up until now. I also attended a summer camp in the United States for almost a month, where activities and group living played a big part. I realized how difficult it was to live with people who had a different lifestyle and a completely contrasting way of thinking. In Hong Kong, I took part in a small violin ensemble program for two weeks. It required more cooperation, focus, and responsibility because traveling as a big group has its own challenges, and we faced many problems and situations that we had to adapt and adjust to at the last minute. Furthermore, I have joined several meditation camps, a sailing camp, and other short-term programs. These experiences did not suddenly make me completely independent, but they helped me learn how to manage myself, follow rules, and be responsible in shared environments. In my daily life, I enjoy simply staying active. I like running, walking, playing volleyball occasionally, and swimming. In the past, I participated in swimming competitions, and now I go running every now and then with my mom. I have never tried running races seriously, except for the school’s sports day, but it is something I am very interested in and hope to try seriously in America. I try to keep myself moving even when I am not training seriously. I also enjoy playing the Go board game, which is something I started when I was 6, and even now, I still actively join competitions. It teaches me patience through careful thinking and what the word commitment means. Music and the arts are another important part of my life. I mainly play the piano at a beginner to intermediate level, and I have some experience with the violin as well. In my free time, I enjoy practicing on my own. I am also interested in art and enjoy crafts, especially when I can work with my hands and take my time. At school, I take my responsibilities seriously. I enjoy subjects such as biology, physical education, music, art, and literature. While I may not be overly expressive in class, I stay focused and responsible. I would describe myself as serious about my work, even though, like most students, I can be lazy at times—but never irresponsible. Academics are an important part of my life, and I value learning, especially when I find opportunities that really interest me. At home, I live with my parents, my sister, and a dog. I have my own room now. My parents started their own business and still run it together. Their workplace is our home, so we see each other throughout the day, eat meals together, and do our own things in between. I help with basic chores like washing dishes, doing laundry, and cleaning my room. It is normal home stuff, and I am used to taking care of my own space and sharing common areas. I have stayed with a host family before, so I am used to living with other people, sharing meals, and helping out when needed. I have also always studied at the same international school. It used to be right next to my house, and even after it moved, it is still close. I have never been in a Thai school, so the international school environment is what I am used to. I am not loud or super expressive, but I am okay with routines, rules, and adjusting to different households and environments. One reason I am interested in an exchange experience in the United States is the balance between academics and activities, especially sports. I aim to explore more types of physical activities and experience a different daily lifestyle, while still taking my academic responsibilities seriously. Having a host who can guide me, support me, share their experiences, help me learn new things, and help me understand more about opportunities for my future, both academically and personally, would mean a lot to me. I am also looking forward to experiencing cold weather and seeing snow, as it would be completely new for me. More importantly, I look forward to learning through real experiences—living with a host family, sharing routines, and trying things I have never done before. I hope this exchange will help me broaden my perspective, build confidence, and allow me to make the most of new opportunities. I hope to grow as a person by stepping out of my comfort zone and learning to adapt to a new environment. Hope to see you soon. Best,